They caused an outcry, but we thought we knew where we stood with Donald Trump’s immigration reforms when he wanted to deport 11 million undocumented immigrants and to build a wall.
But in recent weeks a lack of clarity in the Republican nominee for president’s stance on immigration and rumors of backtracking have led to questions over his proposed immigration reforms.
A CNN report said Trump is facing flak from moderate voters who see his past rhetoric on immigration as racist. At the same time, he wants to appease his conservative base by taking a hard line on immigration.
The net result is a lack of clarity. It’s something that concerns our Austin immigration attorneys who have explored reforms to the system on our website.
Are Trump’s Immigration Reforms Narrowing?
CNN noted an apparent narrowing of the scope of the immigration reforms from Trump. It suggests he might be rethinking the hardline policy that he made his name for in the primaries.
However, there is a worrying lack of specifics. Trump’s stance led to claims he is being deliberately vague to avoid alienating voters.
Trump was asked about the plans to deport 11 million undocumented immigrants. He deflected the question and said he wants to swiftly remove criminal immigrants from the United States.
Meanwhile, a senior campaign advisor has said there will be a conversation on what to do with undocumented immigrants after the border is secured. Trump would concentrate on the wall plan before deportation but his immigration reforms are clouded.
Trump’s running mate, Mike Pence, acknowledged Trump had made a shift over immigration but was unable to give much clarity over the deportation issue.
Previously, Trump has cited the example of “Operation Wetback” in 1954. President Dwight Eisenhower’s government rounded up thousands of undocumented immigrants from ranches and fields. They were transported to detention centers and sent them back to Mexico.
In a previous blog, we have noted how an initiative to round up 11 million undocumented immigrants would pose massive logistical difficulties. Deportations peaked at about 400,000 annually in the most active year. Removing 11 million people would be unprecedented. Experts have warned locating the immigrants alone would be almost impossible. Police officers would be required to ask for proof of residency or citizenship during random traffic stops or other stops. Critics believe this scenario would curtail civil liberties.
If you need help with a pressing immigration matter or are facing possible deportation, contact our Austin immigration lawyers as soon as possible.